How to Control Invasive Species

Integrated Weed Management

The Central Kootenay Invasive Plant Committee promotes Integrated Invasive Plant (IP) Management. Integrated IP management involves using a combination of appropriate control methods to reduce invasive plant infestations to an acceptable level, and requires monitoring these activities to evaluate the effectiveness of the control strategy. Read more at Weeds BC.

Control Methods

The best control option depends on a number of factors including; knowledge of the potential damage of the species, relative abundance of the plant species, characteristics of the site, the cost of the control method, and the environmental impact of the weed and the control option. For management methods for a particular invasive plant species, look up the plant on Weeds BC website.

There are many ways to control invasive plants, including prevention, cultural, mechanical, chemical and biological options. Invasive species management involves more than just removing "weeds". It is important to set priorities for your land to determine the best approach. A good start is the guidebook the "Seven Steps to Managing your Weeds" manual. This guidebook highlights the seven steps to invasive plant management:

Describe the property or management area.

Inventory and map the property or management area for invasive plants.